In an earlier paper,1 four cases of sacro-iliac fusion by a new method were reported. Since then, this operation has been performed in five additional cases. It is my purpose in this paper to discuss briefly the indications for operation; to call attention to a new diagnostic maneuver of value in differentiating between lumbosacral and sacro-iliac lesions; to describe the operative technic more fully, and to summarize the results.
Even on casual comparison with the other major weight-bearing joints, it becomes apparent that mechanically the sacro-iliac joint is relatively weak, its integrity depending largely on ligamentous and muscular support. This has been recognized so generally since the studies of Goldthwaite and Osgood2 in 1905 that no further comment is necessary. In both tuberculosis and persistent strain, fixation by appliance would be indicated if this could be efficiently made. There is, however, no form of brace or support which